Ulysse Nardin Sponsors Special Lola Astanova Performance at Lincoln Center

Classical pianist virtuoso Lola Astanova brought her unique style, emotional depth and dramatic stage presence to the Lincoln Center last night for a special symphonic event presented by luxury Swiss watch manufacturer, Ulysse Nardin. Wearing a long sparkling gown and sky-high heels, Astanova performed Tchaikowsky: Piano Concerto #1 and Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto #2 with the the Orchestra of St. Luke’s. She is the only pianist virtuoso, since Van Cliburn, to play these two piano concertos consecutively in 15 years.

San Diego Symphony’s music director Jahja Ling conducted the remarkable program. “There’s a refreshing spark that Lola brings into the classical music world — her unique and passionate playing style embodies the essence of great pianists from the past,” Ling revealed.

Astanova first worked with Ling in Palm Beach when she performed Tchaikovsky’s first piano concerto at the Kravis Center. The two are scheduled to continue their artistic collaboration throughout the 2013 season, which includes a performance of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue with the Palm Beach Symphony on March 28. “It is a pleasure to be continuing to perform with her,” he added.

For those that can’t make it to one of Astanova’s upcoming shows, not to worry, many of her impressive videos are available online. In fact, the talented pianist has built a global following via social media. Many of her videos have received millions of views and her own original piano transcriptions of modern music are attempted by thousands of pianists.